VIDEO: Zoo’s Snow Leopard Cubs Make Public Debut

The two male cubs were the centre of attention during a media photo-op, but were a little shy at first. The pair remained hidden in their enclosure for about 40 minutes before being coaxed by zoo staff to make an appearance.

“Both cubs are happy, healthy and doing well,” said Gary Lunsford, general curator and acting director of zoological operations at the Assiniboine Park Zoo. “We know the public has been patiently waiting for their debut and we are very excited to introduce them today.”

The zoo is asking the community to help choose names for the snow leopard cubs by voting in a poll on its Facebook page. Until Thursday, August 29 at 9 p.m., voting will take place for the five possible names, including Nidara, Bataar, Arka, Raj and Kovo.

The cubs and their mother, Batu, have spent the last several weeks off-exhibit in their den and are now ready to start exploring their habitat.